Brief Description: Authorizing public tribal colleges to participate in the running start program.

Sponsors: Representatives Quall, McCoy, Cox, Blake, Sells, Skinner, Fromhold, Clements, Appleton, Morris, Linville, Hunter, Darneille, Ormsby, Morrell, Murray, Roberts, Campbell, Chase, P. Sullivan, Santos, Haigh, Dunn and Simpson.

Hearing Date: 2/4/05

Staff: Sydney Forrester (786-7120).

Background:

Under the Running Start dual enrollment program, school districts and public institutions of higher education may partner and allow students in grades 11 and 12 to enroll in one or more college-level courses prior to high school graduation. A public tribal college, however, is not within the definition of the institutions eligible to participate in the program.

Northwest Indian College currently is the only public tribal college in the state, and is funded primarily through federal appropriations. The college participates in Washington's Work First and Adult Basic Education programs, and students may use state financial aid at the college.

Summary of Bill:

A public tribal college that is authorized by the Higher Education Coordinating Board is eligible to participate in the Running Start Program.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 24, 2005.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.